Should I replace the Timing chain and gears?

[cwelk87gn]

I have been thinking about taking the front cover off of the GN to fix a few oil leaks and was curious as to when these things need new timing chains and gears. The car only has 77k miles on it and runs fine, but I am a sucker for preventative maintenance.

 

[scottyb]

I'd definately do it, especially if you're already taking off the cover! Timing sets aren't very expensive. Inspect the cam gear when you remove the cover and make a decision if you like, but there's no way I'd leave that plastic covered gear in there if I have the cover off.

 

[TurboGN]

Originally posted by cwelk87gn
I have been thinking about taking the front cover off of the GN to fix a few oil leaks and was curious as to when these things need new timing chains and gears. The car only has 77k miles on it and runs fine, but I am a sucker for preventative maintenance.

If you still have the OEM valve springs and the cars been driven easy then the nylon cam gear is probably in good shape and the original chain is plenty tight. I saw one with 120k tight as the day it was new, however, driven by an older woman and never raced or modified. My car has had it fairly easy but a few of the nylon teeth were cracked at 65k. I'm also a sucker for maintenance. I'd replace the stocker with a Dynagear from the Zone or other OEM type with the tensioner and billet steel replacement gears. Don't fall for the double roller bicycle chains. They cost more, stretch more, and can't be used with a tensioner. (I know the racers will blast me for that one but its true) Replacing the chain also allows you to replace the obsolete cam button and rope front seal. You may even want to do some porting on the cover to improve oiling. Good luck, Joel